Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, vertical grain (VG) with high-contrast growth rings; primarily rift-sawn or quarter-sawn appearance showing distinct transition between earlywood and latewood.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown, while the earlywood is yellowish-tan. Luster is medium-dull. Can develop a grayish patina if weathered or darken to a deeper orange-red with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot and decay, though it is susceptible to termite attack and prolonged moisture contact without treatment.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy timber construction, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Coast and Rocky Mountain regions).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear being more expensive).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be modern, kiln-dried dimensional lumber, possibly 1-5 years old, showing some minor surface oxidation and mechanical wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC certified and considered a highly sustainable commercial timber.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can split easily when nailing or screwing near edges. The latewood can be quite hard compared to the earlywood, sometimes causing uneven sanding.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio; the high contrast grain is an aesthetic hallmark of the species.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and oils reasonably well, though a wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching. Polyurethane or lacquer provides excellent protection for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight, uniform vertical growth rings and characteristic color contrast between earlywood and latewood are definitive of Douglas Fir vertical grain lumber.